Tucson native returns from overseas deployment

Ensign Shea Livingston, is a surface warfare officer serving aboard USS Boxer (LHD-4), based in San Diego, California.

As a surface warfare officer, Livingston is responsible for driving and operating the ship while also leading a group of around 30 Sailors in her department.

“The part I love the most about my job, is leading and mentoring Sailors and it’s also pretty cool to drive a 40,000 ton warship and have the Captain’s faith that you are capable to do so,” said Livingston.

Boxer is an amphibious assault ship that resembles a small aircraft carrier. When deployed overseas, it is designated as the flagship of Combined Task Force 151, the international anti-piracy task force pursuing pirates off the coast of Somalia.

Boxer is famous for playing a critical role in the rescue mission of Capt. Richard Phillips on April 12, 2009. U.S. Navy SEALS and other special operations forces from USS Bainbridge (DDG 96) rescued Phillips who was later transferred to Boxer for medical evaluation and care. This successful rescue mission was portrayed in the 2103 movie, “Captain Phillips,” starring Tom Hanks, and featuring crewmembers from the USS Boxer.

The ship is armed with two semi-active radar-guided NATO Sea Sparrow missile systems (NSSMS) for anti-air warfare protection, two rolling airframe missile (RAM) systems and two Phalanx close-in weapon-system (CIWS) mounts to counter threats from low-flying aircraft and close-in small craft. It’s 844 feet long 106 feet wide, displaces more than 40,000 tons, and reaches speeds in excess of 23 miles per hour.

As a member of the U.S. Navy’s amphibious assault ship, Livingston said she is proud to be part of most capable amphibious force in the world.

“This is my first ship and it will always be important to me and where I will learn the most,” said Livingston. “The chain of command is always great and very helpful in ensuring I am developing to my full potential.”

Sailors’ jobs are highly varied at sea, according to Navy officials. More than 1,000 crewmembers keep the ship running smoothly, which includes everything from maintaining engines, handling weapons, and flying aircraft.

Serving in the Navy, Livingston is learning about being a more responsible leader, and sailor through handling numerous responsibilities. The recent deployment offered the opportunity to experience cultures from around the world.

“The Navy has helped me see the importance of serving your country and the role the Navy plays in defending it,” said Livingston. “It’s also taught me how to be selfless and put others before myself because as a leader, you have to take care of the people you are leading.”